The first spectacular images taken by the Vera C. Rubin Observatory have been released for the world to peruse: a panoply of iridescent galaxies and shimmering nebulas. Much has been written about the observatory’s grand promise: to revolutionize our understanding of the cosmos by revealing a once-hidden population of far-flung galaxies, erupting stars, interstellar objects, and elusive planets. —Robin George AndrewsBack in January, we selected the Vera C. Rubin Observatory as one of our 10 Breakthrough Technologies of 2025. Read more about why it’s such a promising tool for enhancing our understanding of the universe. Why we need to think differently about privacyPrivacy only matters to those with something to hide.